An exhibit at the Alaska Zoo was temporarily closed Thursday after a bonobo ran into and shattered a layer of safety glass, zoo officials confirmed.
The incident occurred in the late morning when keepers noticed that one of the bonobos appeared agitated. At some point, the animal ran toward the viewing area and struck the protective glass separating the primate enclosure from guests. The impact caused one layer of the multi-pane safety glass to crack, prompting an immediate closure of the exhibit as a precaution.
No visitors or staff were injured, and the bonobo remained inside its enclosure throughout the event. Zoo personnel quickly secured the area and began evaluating the damage. A spokesperson for the Alaska Zoo said the safety glass performed as designed, preventing any breach that would have allowed contact between the animal and the public.
The zoo said specialists will assess the damaged glass and repair or replace it before reopening the exhibit. In the meantime, signage has been posted to inform guests of the temporary closure.
Officials also noted that veterinary and behavioral staff will review the bonobo’s care and environment to determine whether adjustments are needed to reduce stress or prevent similar incidents in the future.
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The Alaska Zoo remains open to visitors, and guests were directed to other exhibits while the assessment is underway.
